Sarah Koik’s Positive Spin on Negative Space

“I hope that these shapes draw attention to details that might often go unnoticed, and maybe even allow for similar opportunities in our everyday lives.”

Sarah Koik’s pitchers have an unmistakable look to them. For something that traditionally holds water, you would expect an object to not have cut-outs. These pitchers do have large areas cut out of them pushing the boundaries of negative space. They have a sculptural quality that makes you question form over function. Yet because they work, they answer your questions. Yes, an object can have both outstanding forms and still actually function. Koik says of her work, “I hope that these shapes draw attention to details that might often go unnoticed, and maybe even allow for similar opportunities in our everyday lives.”

Does it pour?

Koik initially began working with pitchers because of the way she could work with the function and make them more sculptural. She explored the geometric shapes and the negative space to push the boundaries of functionality. People often ask, “Does it pour?” which is why she has put together a video of the different pitchers successfully pouring water from them.

“I can’t say enough about the incredible and robust clay community in the Bay Area.”

In 2007 Koik received her degree in ceramics and sculpture, then came to the San Francisco Bay Area to pursue her MFA. After a short time, she decided to change course and pursue a museum career at the local science center. During that time she always made time for making objects, but four years ago she returned to ceramics. “I can’t say enough about the incredible and robust clay community in the Bay Area,” says Koik. “The knowledge, thoughtfulness, and resources available here really allowed me to dive as deep as I have in this new chapter in my practice. I’m forever grateful to have found the people and places and opportunities here.”

Ultimately, she loves how there is always something new to learn in ceramics. “It’s exciting to have this process and material that I can spend the rest of my life being repeatedly amazed and mesmerized by over and over again.”

Where to Buy

If you go to Sarah Koik’s website, you’ll notice that there isn’t a place to buy directly. She recently started selling her work and she takes orders on a case-by-case basis. She’s still easing back into her pottery roots… “Just as long as it stays fun.” She has a booth at West Coast Craft and she has a collection at United Arrows One in Tokyo. But if you’re interested in acquiring one her pieces the best way to find opportunities to do so is to follow her on Instagram or join her mailing list.